Trap: meaning, definitions and examples

Trap is used in general situations where something or someone is caught, usually implying a mechanism or setup, often used for animals or in a metaphorical sense for people being caught in a difficult situation.

• He set a trap to catch the mouse
• She felt like she was in a trap in her job, unable to move forward or quit

Snare is typically used to describe a trap for catching animals, particularly using a loop of wire or rope. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a deceptive or tricky situation.

• He set a snare for the rabbits in the garden
• She was caught in the snare of her own lies

Pitfall refers to a hidden danger or difficulty that can cause trouble or failure, often used in abstract or metaphorical contexts.

• One of the major pitfalls of starting a new business is the lack of market research
• Avoiding common pitfalls in software development can save time and resources

Ambush is used in situations where people or animals hide and wait to attack or catch someone unexpectedly. It often has a military or tactical connotation.

• The soldiers set up an ambush for the enemy convoy
• They were ambushed by a group of masked men while walking home

Use 'trap' when referring to a physical device or a situation set up to catch someone or something.

• The hunters set a trap to catch the wild animals.
• He walked right into their trap by revealing his secret plan.

'Trick' is used for actions intended to deceive or fool someone, often for fun or to gain an advantage.

• She played a trick on her brother by hiding his keys.
• His trick led people to believe he was someone else.

'Deception' is used to describe the act of making someone believe something that is not true, often for personal gain.

• Her charm and beauty were all part of the deception.
• The con artist’s deception cost the company thousands of dollars.

'Snare' is typically used to describe a type of trap, often a rope or wire used to catch animals, but can also mean catching someone through trickery.

• The poachers set a snare in the forest.
• He fell into the snare of her lies.

Used when someone is literally or figuratively caught in a situation from which it is hard to escape.

• The mouse was caught in a trap
• He felt trapped in a dead-end job

Employed when someone is intentionally misleading or lying to another person. It often has a strong negative connotation.

• She was deceived into believing he loved her
• The advertisement was meant to deceive customers

Commonly used when someone is being fooled or misled, often in a playful or less serious manner. It can also be negative depending on the context.

• He played a trick on his friend
• She tricked her brother into doing her chores

Used in situations where someone is caught or entangled in a difficult situation, often implying a sense of being trapped through trickery or manipulation.

• The hunter’s trap ensnared the rabbit
• He was ensnared by his own lies